The Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association union (TSSA), who Mr Crow worked alongside, also paid its respects, adding: ‘Tragic to hear of Bob Crow’s death. A great trade unionist. Our thoughts are with his family, friends & those he worked so hard to represent.’

The 52-year-old’s death was announced by the RMT earlier today in a brief statement that asked the media to respect the privacy of his friends and family at this distressing time.

I didn’t always agree with him politically but I always respected his tireless commitment to fighting for the men and women in his union.